Canadian Milk Vetch Seeds

• HOW TO GROW
• FAST FACTS
• REVIEWS

Sowing: For fall planting, direct sow Canadian Milk Vetch seeds 1/2" deep; it will remain dormant until spring. Before spring planting, scarify by pouring hot water over the seed and soaking it for 24 hours; direct sow the seed 1/2" deep. Germination may be irregular and slow, but should take place within 4-8 weeks. Germination may be improved by mixing the scarified seed with moist sand and storing it in the refrigerator for 10 days before planting. This plant does not transplant well and should not be started indoors.

Growing: This plant adapts to almost any kind of soil including sand or clay, but prefers moderately moist conditions and full sun; it cannot tolerate shade. Seedlings should be watered regularly, while mature plants may only need water in dry periods. Since this plant develops rather slowly, it may not bloom until its second year of growth. Unless it has competition, it can become rather aggressive once established. The blossoms attract hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees and bumblebees.

Harvesting: These attractive flower spikes make wonderful cut flowers. Cut the stems near ground level to allow for new growth.

Seed Saving: After flowering, the plant will produce brown, bean-like pods. Strip the pods from the stalk when the seed inside reaches its mature brown or black color. Thresh to separate the Astragalus Canadensis seeds from their pods. Store Canadian Milk Vetch seeds in a cool, dry place.

Common Names: Rattle Vetch, Little Rattlepod

Latin Name: Astragalus canadensis

Species Origin: US Native Wildflower

Type: Native Wildflowers

Life Cycle: Perennial

USDA Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

US Regions: Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast

Seeds per Ounce: 16,500

Stratification: Cold/Wet for 1 Week

Germination Ease: Stratify 1 Week

Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun

Height: 36 Inches

Color: Cream

Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer

Uses: Deer Resistant